Medicinal Herbs for Summer

Spring and Summer are the times when the world comes alive. Fresh cut grass permeates the air. Flowers start to bloom, giving the front yard a rainbow of color. Herb gardens start to spring forth new growth. This is a wonderful time of year.

Medicinal herbs have played many roles in people's lives for centuries. Whether they were used to soothe a cough or take away the ache of a sore muscle, herbs were there. Our forefathers knew the value of herbs long before Modern Science started researching them. From colt's foot for an upper respitory ailment to peppermint for an upset stomach people used herbs for everything.

Most common herbs can be found in kitchen adding a taste sensation to any dish. Oregano and basil or garlic and thyme have all found a way into creative cooking. Medicinal herbs should also be a part of our kitchen pantry.

One great medicinal herb for the immune system is echinacea. Most people know this as a purple cone flower. The stalks are anywhere from two to four foot tall topped with massive purple flowers which resemble a daisy. Echinacea has been reputed to help with the common cold. However, studies do vary in their reports. The root of the Echinacea plant is said to be the most effective in building up the body's own immune system.

Another great medicinal herb is plantain. This is a weed which grows in the front yards of almost all homes across America. A poultice made of plantain is perfect for insect bites and bee stings. The pain is almost completely gone within minutes of application. Swelling is reduced. This is not a cure for anaphylactic shock. Medicinal herbs like plantain take time to work. If you are allergic to bee stings, then immediate medical treatment is required. If you are not in any real danger, plantain can help with quick relief.

Native Americans knew the value of the plants growing around them. Tansy is a weed in most parts. The great thing about this little plant is that it repels mosquitos better than any spray you can buy. Bee balm, or bergamot, is excellent in helping with digestion. It is also great as a fever reducer. Did you know that the hydrangea was used to effectively treat kidney stones? Our ancestors did.

Check into the herbs growing around you. There are many plants you probably did not even know were medicinal. Plants like jewel weed for poison ivy exposure or mullen for an ear infection are common plants people pass by every day. You may be surrounded by a pharmacy and not even know it.

Source: The Herb Society of America; Encyclopedia of Herbs written by Deni Bown